Alister and his magic guitar
WITH reference to your recent article about the local pop group The Wolves (June 9) the lead guitarist John Eades left the group and emerged on the club scene as Alister Jons, becoming something of a legend of the late ’60s and early ’70s.
‘Alister’ became a personal friend and I recall ‘magic’ shows with him involved. There were many guitar/vocal acts about but he was one of the outstanding ones when he appeared in the Black Country clubs, they were packed. His act was dynamic to say the least, combining his exciting guitar expertise with his energy and outstanding personality. He really thrilled audiences.
I was always sure when he appeared solo or with a show that I had no worries, he was always professional, co-operative and friendly. He was idolised on the club circuit.
Theatre
Alister went under the management of Larry Parnes, and later went into theatre management in the West End of London, assisting the legendary Louis Benjamin. He had his own TV show for children and did a televised command show which was attended by Princess Margaret.
Whilst in London he contacted me on numerous occasions to find him gigs when he came back to Newport, Shropshire. I even accompanied him on various engagements as far afield as Liverpool. Alister came back to resume his club career in the early ’80s, and did very well until he was unfortunately taken ill with cancer, and he moved to Cornwall to work the West Country circuit.
During his illness a benefit show was arranged at the prestigious Barn Social Club, Witton, on which numerous top acts appeared ‘free gratis’, including the legendary Bert Weedon. Despite a courageous fight, Alister passed away in his early sixties.
I and many more will remember his brilliance, featuring such tunes as his routine of Zorba’s Dance, Lara’s Theme, and other classics such as his never to be forgotten Jack the Ripper routine.
He will be remembered as one of the most exciting guitarists of the ’60s and ’70s, a great artiste and a thoroughly nice guy.
Reg Summerfield, Netherleigh, Becket Street, Bilston